Comprehensive overview of the complex gut microbiota-miRNA crosstalk in immunocompromised pediatric patients

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Immunology
• Genetics

Background:

• Immunocompromised children, especially leukemia patients, face high infection risks due to medical treatments.
• Antimicrobial prophylaxis disrupts the gut microbiota, potentially compromising intestinal barrier function.
• Gut microbiota and microRNAs (miRNAs) are crucial for maintaining gut homeostasis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the interplay between gut microbiota and intestinal miRNAs in immunocompromised pediatric patients.
• To explore the potential of gut microbiota and miRNAs as biomarkers in this population.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on gut microbiota, miRNAs, and pediatric immunocompromised states.
• Analysis of mechanisms linking microbial dysbiosis and miRNA dysregulation.
• Synthesis of current knowledge on diagnostic and prognostic applications.

Main Results:

• Antimicrobial use significantly alters gut microbiota composition and function.
• Host-derived miRNAs released into the gut lumen influence microbial communities.
• Alterations in gut microbiota and miRNAs are associated with compromised gut integrity.

Conclusions:

• The gut microbiota and intestinal miRNAs are critical regulators of gut health in immunocompromised children.
• These factors hold promise as novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers.
• Further research is needed to translate these findings into clinical practice for pediatric oncology patients.